Mary Poppins 2: Dick Van Dyke Confirmed to Appear

The exact nature of Van Dyke’s appearance is not known, whether it will be a cameo or a slightly larger part, but Miranda’s character is said to be a protege of Van Dyke’s Bert, so it could well be that the pair will share scenes. He might be 91 years of age, but Van Dyke can still dance and sing, so it would be great to see that utilized in a reprisal of his role, if that were at all possible. The confirmation of his involvement might mean Andrews could come on board, too, even if it’s just for a fleeting appearance.

Mary Poppins Returns will revisit Jane and Michael Banks as disillusioned adults (rumored to be played by Emily Mortimer and Ben Whishaw), with the titular nanny returning when the pair suffer a personal tragedy. Mary Poppins Returns will be directed by Rob Marshall (Into the Woods), with a score and songs from Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman (Hairspray). Joining the aforementioned cast will be Colin Firth as William Weatherall Wilkins, President of Fidelity Fiduciary Bank. Fans of the original Mary Poppins will recognize that name as the bank where George Banks worked.

Rather like Disney’s upcoming live-action Beauty and the Beast, which was met with skepticism at first, Mary Poppins Returns is something most people are warming to as more news comes out concerning the casting and the direction the movie is taking. Certainly Van Dyke’s involvement is a big plus, along with the rest of the impressive cast list. Add to that the pedigree of Marshall, tied in with Shaiman and Wittman’s proven songwriting ability, and Mary Poppins’ Return could be a very welcome one indeed.